Watford were also forced into an early change when Christian Kabasele came on for the injured Miguel Britos in the 19th minute.

Both teams were struggling to stamp their authority on a turgid half until Lallana went desperately close to a goal-of-the-season contender with a magnificent dipping volley that crashed against the crossbar.

However, Watford could have drawn level when Etienne Capoue struck towards goal, but Simon Mignolet tipped the ball over at full stretch.

A fully fit Lallana perhaps would have done better with a poor first touch when played in by Can, while substitute Daniel Sturridge was brilliantly foiled late on by Gomes.